Correctional Officer training

CSC30122 Certificate III in Correctional Practice (Adult Custodial)

Eight weeks of classroom training – full time

This is a formal classroom training environment which covers theoretical knowledge to facilitate understanding and performance in:

  • roles and structures of the department
  • prisoner management – including reducing re-offending, rehabilitation and re-integration
  • personal safety
  • institutional security
  • records administration
  • report writing
  • communication and practical workplace skills
  • use of computerised database systems.

Four weeks in-service roster ‘on the job’ training – full time

Skills
  • learn to use a case management model which assists prisoners’ care, rehabilitation and skill development
  • gain experience in safe, secure and humane control of prisoners
  • observe custodial interactions and practice skills prior to commencement of duties
  • opportunity to see practical application of learnt theory.

Two weeks of classroom training – prior to 12 month probationary period – full time

This is a formal classroom training environment conducted towards the end of the initial 12 month period which covers:

  • mental health first aid
  • situational awareness and incident management
  • career development and pathways in DCS

Expectations

Trainee and Probationary Correctional Officers will:

  • interact closely and communicate directly with prisoners
  • receive training, assistance and direction from qualified Correctional Officers
  • perform a range of duties related to the security, safety and welfare of prisoners
  • contribute to the reduction of re-offending and rehabilitation outcomes of prisoners.

Formal testing

The Trainee Correctional Officer (TCO) will be undertaking formal competency-based assessments, conducted at appropriate times throughout the initial 12-week off-job course. 
Two formal performance reviews will also be conducted throughout the initial 12 weeks.

Supervision after training

On successful completion of the 12-week off-job course, the Probationary Correctional Officer (PCO) will commence work within their nominated prison.  During this period, they will work with experienced correctional officers and be provided opportunity to apply and develop their learned skills and knowledge, with additional on-job assessments to be completed by arrangement with a Learning Academy assessor.

Another two formal performance reviews will be conducted during this period, during which evidence of competency for Certificate III in Correctional Practice shall be gathered.

Graduation

Probationary Correctional Officers who successfully complete their training, demonstrate competence and satisfy their performance reviews will be eligible for the Certificate III in Correctional Practice (Adult Custodial).

This qualification is issued by the Department’s Registered Training Organisation (RTO), VTEC-SA under the Australian Qualification Framework and is recognised Australia wide.

Specialist or further career roles

Becoming a Correctional officer is not the end of your career journey.

There are many paths open to you including:

  • Advanced Correctional Officer
  • Operations Supervisor
  • Dog handler
  • Case Management Co-ordinator
  • Assistant General Manager
  • General Manager.

Training opportunities

DCS supports our staff by providing training and development opportunities such as:

  • Tomorrow's Senior Manager program
    An Executive initiative to identify future senior operational managers and unlocking their potential so that the Department has the right people, in the right place, at the right time.
  • Emergency Warden training

  • Study Assistance
    We assist with appropriate training and development with a range of options to study and gain work related qualifications. The level of support will be on a case-by-case basis.

Further information

For further information contact our recruitment consultants on (08) 8226 9150 or (08) 8226 9048 Email: DCSTCORecruitment@sa.gov.au